Chocolate Nut Zucchini Bread
Chocolate Nut Zucchini Bread is a moist, flavorful treat combining rich cocoa, grated zucchini, and crunchy nuts, perfect for breakfast or a snack for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 10-inch tube pan or 2 bread pans and flour them.
- In a large bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Set aside.
- In another large bowl, beat the eggs. Add sugar and beat until well combined.
- Gradually add salad oil to the egg mixture and beat thoroughly.
- Stir in grated zucchini until evenly incorporated.
- Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s).
- Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before removing from the pan and slicing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting half of the salad oil with unsweetened applesauce. You can also add chocolate chips for extra sweetness or try using whole wheat flour for added nutrition. Ensure the zucchini is well-drained to avoid a soggy loaf. This recipe can be adjusted for different nuts based on your preference or what you have on hand.
Serving Suggestions
This delicious bread is perfect for breakfast or as a snack. Serve it warm with a pat of butter or cream cheese spread. It pairs beautifully with your morning coffee or tea. You can also enjoy it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. For a delightful twist, serve it with a side of fresh fruit or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Chocolate Nut Zucchini Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, slice and warm in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or place slices in a toaster for a few minutes for a crispy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Nut Zucchini Bread contains roughly 528 calories, with 13g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (50% of the Daily Value), iron (36% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 876mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! You can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum, or add it separately, to help with the texture. The result should be a deliciously moist and dense zucchini bread that everyone can enjoy.
What type of nuts work best in this recipe?
Walnuts and pecans are popular choices that complement the chocolate flavor well. However, feel free to experiment with other nuts like hazelnuts or almonds. Just make sure to chop them coarsely for the best texture in your bread.
How can I tell when the zucchini bread is done baking?
The best way to check for doneness is to insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the bread is done. If it comes out with wet batter, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).